Finally he is complete! "Teddy" is a commission piece I have created for a much loved friend. She is presenting him as a 30th wedding anniversary present to her husband, whom is very fond of the eldest family dog. They currently have 3 fur babies but Teddy is by far his favorite. I have the pleasure of knowing Teddy. He is timid and wee but oh so sweet.

I don't focus a lot of my painting on portraits but do enjoy them and love the challenge they present. I'm very happy with the results of this piece. I am surrounded by a group of family and friends whom continually support my work but there is something about making a piece for someone whom is close to me that creates an extra level of pressure. Teddy will be making his way home to Kelowna, BC on Saturday and I hope his new owner will enjoy him as much as I enjoyed creating him.

I participated in a week long class in Red Deer from July 23-27. Red Deer College holds a Summer Series of fine art workshops. The facility has had major renovations since I last saw it and the space we worked in was beautiful.

Abstract Loose & Free with Samantha daSilva. Our home for the week!

I received a package shortly before my class started that contained a small canvas. The college has this great little idea called the Canvas Project. They send all the upcoming students a 6"x8" canvas to paint/donate on the first day of class. Those donations go on display in the common area where they are sold for $20 each. Those proceeds are contributed to a scholarship program. I thought it was a creative idea and it was really interesting to see all the donations from the students. Being able to see individual styles prior to our class. This was my little donation and it SOLD, which always makes an artists heart happy.

Our busy little class. Everyone was so eager to create. It was nice to spend time in the presence of people with a creative focus. Art can sometimes be very isolated experience. It's not very often you get to paint "with someone".

My first creation on day one. It's very "beachy".

At the end of 5 days, I left with 13 almost complete canvas. Some still need some work/love but ultimately it was productive. It was certainly a pleasure to work in such a large space with so much room to move and store painting while they dried and the huge sinks. That may sound silly to some but for someone whom works in her "dining area" in her one bedroom apartment........this painting studio was luxurious!

What a crazy month it's been! I have done a heck of a lot of driving......participated in the Whyte Ave Art Walk.........was part of the follow up gallery show at the Daffodil Gallery............ attended a week long painting workshop in Red Deer...... said goodbye to my Mom and Dad who are moving back to Newfoundland to retire......oh and have I mentioned a lot of driving! Phew! It's been a slice July. I've learned a ton, met some great people, and had a great time. Thanks!